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Lumiose was warm in August, passing the peak of heat in July and settling there before temperature began to lower in September. The sun hung high in the sky, few clouds breaking up the blue, the green of the grass and trees looking brighter in the sunlight. Even the grey tones of the cobblestone looked more vibrant in the sun's rays.
The sunlight peered through the windows of the Lumiose Art Museum, adding more life into the artworks that could be displayed without risk of damage; some older paintings at risk of becoming sun bleached if left exposed. Brassius' works weren't subject to such concerns, the Grass Trainer using his knowledge to his advantage and, if anything, his subjects looked far better when in the elements. A weather-worn sculpture of Sawsbuck in each of their seasonal forms in his younger days was rather popular as time passed.
The third floor of the museum was filled with dealers, critics, fellow artists, and art enjoyers for the opening of the event. Brassius and Hassel had been organising the set up all morning before the exhibit opened in the late afternoon, Brassius being insistent that the art be viewed with daylight, the light of dusk, and then settle into the evening hue. He ensured the placement of each piece would show it off in the finest lighting possible.
As expected, the nature of the event was very high class and, as such, everyone dressed in their finest attire. Brassius wore a suit of deep, rich purple, a green shirt and matching tie, while Hassel's suit was earthy toned greens and a purple shirt and tie to match his husband. Those attending the event were dressed similarly, Lumiose being a fashion hub after all, so not a single person had a thread out of place.
Phen had never been to an event as fancy as this, but loved the aspect of dressing up so much. Even though she wasn't a huge fan of dresses, Atticus had helped her pick an outfit before she headed to Kalos with her family. Aiming to have Phen look and feel as comfortable as possible, Atticus found a dress that was light material with long sleeves, fitted and a v-neck plunge that wasn't too distasteful but also didn't make Phen look older than she was. It was full length and black with pink and white florals flowing down the skirt, a white belt synching her waist in, and a split up the right side. While she didn't need them- still trying to put weight back on- Phen wore black shaping shorts underneath primarily to cover the scars on her thighs and a black knee brace on her left knee to support her while walking in black heeled sandals. Atticus had offered to add some embellishments to the brace but the offer was politely turned down.
Her hair was gently waved and she had done her makeup with muted pinks and a pink sparkle on her lips, adding a sheer purple-pink to her lips for a light summery look. Granted, she'd been tempted to buy more makeup when out with her mum but decided to leave it and really think about if she wanted more makeup (she did, but she knew she didn't need it).
Ailsa was equally glamorous in her full length navy dress, a sleeveless number with a square neckline and champagne coloured heels concealed by the A-line skirt. Her hair was down and curled, her makeup a soft glam and glowy, champagne shimmer accentuating her eyes. It had been a while since she'd had an event she could dress up so much for so she had been just as excited as her daughter for the event.
The pair arrived with Hassel and Brassius once they had all gotten changed and ready to go so Brassius could greet everyone as they arrived. There would be a drinks reception and canopes to begin with, followed by dinner on the museum's rooftop since it was a lovely, dry evening, then the remainder of the evening would be chatting, networking, and viewing Brassius' artwork and other art in the museum. No doubt Ailsa would be doing her own networking as the evening went on and Brassius was hoping to introduce Phen to some fellow artists and let her speak about her own art.
She had to admit, the air of high sophistication of the event, the various people and their talk of the pieces, it felt like a whole other level. Phen knew this was a place she fit into seamlessly, her art was her biggest passion and her life, she lived and breathed it as much as she did battling- if not more- yet the exhibition made her feel like she didn't exactly slot into place. Not yet anyway.
She walked amongst the familiar art she had watched Brassius create, from portraits, landscapes, pottery, sculptures, she had seen at least part of the processes of each. Grass type pokemon were his speciality, his signature, and they flowed through his work effortlessly. One piece, a huge painting of a Mega Venusaur, had been specially requested as part of the exhibition, and the angle made it look as though it was towering above you, imposing, yet gentle at the same time.
However, Brassius had been working tirelessly on another piece, determined to have it finished for the exhibition. It was a large sculpture, his main medium, of a line of pokemon very familiar to the family: Appletun and Dipplin sat at the base of the sculpture, an Applin atop Appletun. Hydrapple also made up the base but the heads rose up, Flapple also fluttering above the others but connected to one of the Hydrapple heads, linking each pokemon together. Brassius named the sculpture "Love In Its Many Forms", proclaiming it to already be one of his favourite pieces he's done. It was simple in its premise but held so much depth and personal weight, it was very endearing to the guests of the exhibition.
Phen listened to them as they talked about the meaning behind the name, why it involved the entire Applin line, the placement of each pokemon. She remembered watching him work as he was putting the finishing touches to the piece, allowing her to study it and wait for her to come to her own conclusion on the meaning.
To her, it was love even before he told her its name. Each member of the Applin line was part of a unit, a family, each connected to one another to balance and strengthen the others in the sculpture. She saw the Appletun and Flapple as Brassius and Hassel respectively because of their own pokemon, the little Applin reminding her of Charoite and the Hydrapple of Kieran. It was clear where his inspiration was coming from even when nothing was said. She adored how the sculpture turned out.
The museum had permitted guests to allow their pokemon to be out, provided they were behaved and not disturb the art or others. Brassius and his Sudowoodo were mingling with guests, Hassel opting to keep his pokemon in their balls- huge dragons weren't exactly appropriate for the setting- while Phen had Gabbro following her around, remaining alert and diligent in acting as a pseudo-guard to his Trainer. As the summer had went on Phen was considering putting Gabbro through training to become a service pokemon more and more. She planned to speak to Nurse Callie about his when the new school year began, or at least get more information on the process. To her relief, the calm environment of the museum was beneficial for him as well, his natural curiosity showing through as they looked at the various pieces throughout the building.
Sometime after the dinner, after mingling and eating and drinking, Phen took to roaming the museum to see anything she may have missed from her visit in May. A magnificent replica of a Mega Evolved Lucario stood with art of the Tower of Mastery, detailing Shalour's history and the keepers of the known knowledge of Mega Evolution. Phen made a note to message Sophie about it since she was a fan of Korrina. Making the trip to Shalour was a bit much, so Phen and her family decided to keep travelling to a minimum. They would spend time in Lumiose before going to Ambrette for the second half of their trip. After that Hassel and Brassius would go home to Paldea while Phen and Ailsa would go to Galar and meet with Penny and her family in the Crown Tundra. After their brief appearance at Penny's twenty-first birthday, Phen was looking forward to knowing them better even if Penny would want to crawl into a hole.
She and Gabbro headed back up the stairs to have a look at the Pokeball display, the replicas of so many different balls causing Phen to take note of just how many had been made over the years. It was certainly impressive and no doubt more and more would get crafted.
"Oh, there you are Gem," Ailsa spoke, getting Phen's attention from the Ball replicas. Ailsa furrowed her eyebrows for a moment, looking between her daughter and her Meowscarada. "Quartz not with you?"
"No?" Phen gave the room a quick scan. "She not with Hassel or Brassius?"
"No, I just thought she would have went to find you," Ailsa shook her head. The Ogerpon had seemed curious about the building so Phen let her out of her Friend Ball, instructing her to stay with Ailsa but, evidently, something had distracted the pokemon.
"She can't have went off far," Phen took a breath and tried not to panic, telling herself that there couldn't be anything that could possibly spell bad news tonight. "I didn't see her downstairs, she might be on the rooftops?"
"Take the lift, you look sore." Ailsa spoke with gentle sterness and it was true; Phen's knee was starting to ache after ascending the stairs. "I'll go see if she's wandering around here then I'll have a check around Brassius' exhibit." Plan set, the two split off to find the missing pokemon.
Quartz did have a habit of wandering if something took her curiosity but no harm ever came from it- unless they were a certain trio of Poison type pokemon. There was also still food out for people and pokemon on the roof so there was also the likelihood of her heading up there to eat, or play with other pokemon.
It was heading into twilight when Phen headed out the elevator and onto the rooftops, stars glittering above Lumiose, blue and oranges and pinks all blending together into a beautiful, gentle sky. Even with the tall buildings in the city it all melded together seamlessly. The city's jewel, the ever-present Prism Tower, could be viewed from every point in Lumiose and the Art Museum's view was no different; the tower gracing the skyline as it had always done, like it was one with it. Lumiose wouldn't be the same if Prism Tower weren't there. A part of her lamented being unable to view the city from the top due to the rennovation works but, perhaps, when it was all done that would be a possibility.
She wasn't alone on the rooftops. Some guests were there having some light conversation and drinks, staff offering drinks and clearing away tables that were empty, one guest looking out to Prism Tower. It was much quieter than it was inside, a sense of peace and calm settling into the summer evening.
It didn't take long Phen to find Quartz, the Ogerpon chirping happily away with another pokemon, a Floette, the pair deep in their conversation. Phen took immediate notice of the stunning black flower Floette clutched onto, having never seen a bloom like it in her life; only imagining how stunning it would be when she became a Florges.
"Quartz, there you are," Phen spoke as she and Gabbro walked over to the pair of pokemon, her own chirping cheerfully on their arrival. "Ma said you wandered off." Quartz trilled and gestured to the Floette, who twirled and chirped merrily. Phen quickly deduced that the pair must have known one another from the interactions but… how? She was sure Floette weren't found around Kitakami.
"This one is yours?" The voice that asked the question was deep, a quiet power sitting beneath it that no doubt would draw people in to listen. Yet the tone was mere curiosity, a simple question that looked to be answered.
Phen looked towards the owner of the voice, the asker of the question, and now fully took in the man's appearance now that her main objective of finding Quartz was complete. His face was mostly concealed due to him only turning his head slightly to direct his question to her, displaying the impressive length of hair that was in a braid. Sivery white hair, the kind of hair that came with age. His height, by Calyrex, Phen had never known a human to reach the height he was even as he was hunched over, resting some weight on his cane- a cane that was clearly customised.
With a nod, Phen gave him his answer: "She is, yes."
A brief silence fell between them, Phen didn't see the man's smile.
"Ama and I were coming to the roof to view Prism Tower," he began to explain, "and your one must have spotted us amongst the crowds- not a difficult task, mind you. I thought, maybe, they had crossed paths in the past, and have been letting them have their time to catch up." In spite of its size and presumed weight, the cane clicked lightly against the stone of the floor as the man turned around to speak to Phen properly. "She has not been of any nuisance, I assure you."
Once again, Phen took a moment to take in his appearance. While his suit was black she could see where pieces had been stitched together to create something that would fit, possibly by himself if he hadn't had a suit customised personally. Hair fell over his left eye, concealing it from view, and his right eye was a deep grey, almost black even, and Phen felt as though she was being closely examined under his gaze. She noted the frown lines, the crows feet, the signs of a life lived, even in his hands. She noted, over his suit, he wore a brace on his left knee.
He looked over to Floette and Quartz with a small shake of his head. "They truly are remarkable creatures." His gaze returned to Phen. "Indulge an old man's questions for a moment, if you would?" Phen nodded once more, humming affirmatively. "I've not seen a pokemon like her, what is she?"
"Her name's Ogerpon, well her species name is," Phen answered as she had done many times over. "I call her Quartz. We met when I was in Kitakami a few years ago."
The man's expression was bemused. "The Ogre of Oni Mountain?"
Phen blinked, surprised. The story was a local legend so how could he have known?
He appeared to notice the unasked question. "I passed through once, many moons ago, searching for something I'd lost." He gave Floette a glance. "It's impressive you were capable of capturing her."
"It… she wasn't the one who was in the wrong," Phen began, the man's face becoming bemused once more. "It… it's a bit of a long story, actually." She heard him give a soft chuckle, seeing him smile. There was such warmth behind it.
"You'll be glad to know that I rather enjoy long stories," he said, gesturing to an empty table. Phen nodded and she walked with him to the table, happy to be under the shade. As they sat, the man tutted to himself. "My apologies, I've yet to introduce myself." He extended his hand for her to take and she did, feeling strength behind his grip that was odd for someone older. "I am AZ," when the handshake broke he gestured to his pokemon, "and this Floette is Amarantha. Or Ama, for short." She chirped and twirled once more.
"I'm Phen," she gestured to Quartz, "this is Quartz," then to Gabbro, "and my Meowscarada, his name's Gabbro."
"What's brought you to Lumiose, Phen?" AZ asked.
"Family trip for the exhibition," she answered. "It's actually one of my dads that's the artist tonight."
"Your father's work is exemplary."
"Thank you," Phen smiled. "What about you?"
"I live in Lumiose, but I do enjoy the occasional trip here," AZ answered. "Seeing moments across time so wonderfully preserved… it leaves one feeling rather nostalgic." Phen wasn't entirely sure why he worded it like that. Nostalgia for a time since passed? No, not that, the tone was too personal. "Of course, seeing the modern artists and their work is also a joy in itself. I make the effort to come when I can." Floette chirped to get his attention, both he and Phen looking over to her. "Yes, Ama, but it was only right we were properly acquainted before she began her story." They looked at Phen once again. "Apologies, I asked to hear your story about Ogerpon."
Phen relayed the story to AZ, starting from when she first went to Kitakami. She talked about the Festival of Masks, how Ogerpon lost the Teal Mask when frightened by Carmine and herself, how Carmine's family had held the true story a secret for generations. She talked about how the Loyal Three, under Pecharunt's command, stole the masks and took the life of Quartz' original partner and had caused her to go into hiding for a long time. She told AZ about Pecharunt's poisonous mochi and the curse it set upon Mossui and that she and her boyfriend had to save his hometown.
As Phen talked, AZ and Floette listened intently. Quartz would chatter on occasion as though to add to Phen's story, while Gabbro lay down, relaxing near Phen. In spite of the revelation turning the story of Kitakami's Orge on its head, neither AZ or Ama appeared surprised by the truth.
"The truth can be, oftentimes, difficult to hear," AZ spoke after a time, considering the story he had been told. "But I am glad she has found a new companion in you." Phen nodded and smiled softly, though a question sat on her tongue.
"How did Amarantha meet Quartz?" A seemingly innocent enough question were it not for the fact that, had they have met previously it would have been a long time ago. Too long for a normal human, or Floette's, lifespan.
"Ama has travelled to many places in her lifetime," AZ answered with a cryptic air around the words. He looked to his pokemon for clarification, Ama humming and trilling to him. The way he listened it was as though he could understand everything she was trying to convey in her twirls and gestures and gentle noises she made.
Phen couldn't help but furrow her eyebrows. There had been people in the past who claimed to understand pokemon, particularly those with innate psychic abilities and not to mention the more infamous example of N, the former King of Team Plasma, so she did wonder if AZ could understand pokemon as easily as a person.
A sense of confirmation was apparent when he frowned solemnly after Amarantha finished talking.
"They met some time after Ogerpon lost her partner," he said. "A single meeting, yet they remember one another after so long."
"Yeah… Quartz hid from people for a long time," Phen reached her hand out to gently pat Quartz' head. "Only other real friend she had was the Bloodmoon Ursaluna in Kitakami… she was alone for a long time."
"But now she has you," AZ smiled. "It's clear she's all the better for it." He was right: Quartz' life was more vibrant since leaving Kitakami with Phen. Some experiences they could have done without but both were happier to have found one another.
"Gem!"
Phen blinked and looked over to the direction of the voice, her mother, Brassius, and Hassel all approaching the table where she and AZ sat. Gabbro's head lifted, watching the three, before looking at Phen as though waiting for her to get to her feet.
Ailsa looked at Quartz somewhat pointedly. "You wandering off again?" To be cheeky and endearing, Quartz chirped and trotted to the woman, beaming happily. Ailsa could only tut and patted the Ogerpon's head. "I know, you're adorable, but you still can't wander off like that."
"Sorry, must've lost track of time," Phen smiled apologetically.
"The fault is mine," AZ insisted. "It appeared that her pokemon and mine were acquainted; she was sharing some of her stories with me." He rose to his feet, Phen smiling at the mild surprise in her mum's eyes from him standing. "My name is AZ."
"Ailsa, nice to meet you. This is Hassel and you probably know the man of the hour, Brassius."
AZ nodded to them in greeting. "You must be Phen's parents."
"Yeah, this is my Ma and my dads," Phen confirmed, getting to her feet and joining the group, looking up at AZ when he hummed curiously. "Bit of a story." Both were distracted when they heard a sniffle; Hassel was looking away and covering his eyes.
"Hass has teared up every time Phen has referred to us as her dads," Brassius smiled, glancing at Ailsa when she lightly tapped his arm.
"You cried as well when she said it the first time."
"Ailsa, I never said I didn't," Brassius returned then turned his attention to Phen. "There were some people I wanted you to meet, if you were free."
"I've taken up enough of your time," AZ said before considering for a moment. "However, will you all be in Lumiose for some time yet?"
"Just until Tuesday," Ailsa responded.
"I would like to extend my invitation for tea," AZ continued. "I would enjoy discussing art with you all more, if you can spare the time."
Ailsa put a hand on her cheek and thought on their plans. "We're free tomorrow, unless you two have something planned now?"
"No," Hassel sniffed, regaining his composure, "we haven't."
"Tomorrow would be wonderful," AZ smiled. "My residence is Hotel Z in the Vert District. It is a little out of the way but I'll make sure someone is there to help you all find your way."
They said their farewells to AZ and returned to the exhibition. Brassius introduced Phen to some of his old friends who were visiting from Unova, artists and critics, they met collectors who were interested in some of Brassius' pieces for his collection, and spoke with people who lived in the city and were fans of Brassius and those just curious that the exhibit. In spite of her nerves Phen talked about how various pieces could be interpreted- both in the exhibit and across the museum- along with learning more about Quasartico's renovation efforts for the city when the subject got to the scale model of Lumiose City. There was no telling how long the renovations across Lumiose would take, the whole project still in the very early stages. There were varying opinions on the whole thing, some skeptical and others hopeful. The uncertainty was warranted; Kalos was still shaken from the events of the Ultimate Weapon.
Phen did see AZ and Ama later in the evening as they left, saying goodbye and confirming their plans once more to visit his hotel for afternoon tea. The older man expressed his anticipation for having guests, as did Amarantha, and bid Phen to enjoy the remainder of her night.
The hotel Phen and her family stayed in was in the Rouge District, close to the museum for Brassius to quickly go back and forth when he was finished organising things to then get ready and then return. As such, it was easier for them all to get a taxi to the Vert District and they got off near the Gare de Lumiose, following the directions AZ had given Phen the night prior.
It was curious, Phen noted, as very little came up about Hotel Z when she decided to be nosy and see what the place looked like. It was as though there was no social media presence for the place, not even a website for bookings. It led Phen to think that perhaps it was just an old hotel that was no longer a hotel- some people did buy buildings like that and convert them after all.
To help guide them, Ama fluttered about at a junction just past a quiet cafe. She cheered at the sight of the group and beckoned them to follow her down a side street. The quiet continued as they headed to the hotel, a gentle quiet that had Phen at ease; even Gabbro was more relaxed as they approached a beautiful, yet old, building. The courtyard was plain, yet well maintained, ivy climbed the walls of the hotel, trees grown on either side of the building. Phen didn't have time to take a picture as Ama ushered them all inside.
And inside was beautiful. There was warmth within it, within the lights and the decor and the colours, if somewhat aged. Even so, it gave the place character, comfort and calm amongst the earthy greens, brown hues of the wooden floors, the patterned wallpaper, and the antique rugs.
She turned her head to look at her mum when she giggled lightly to herself.
"The three of you all match the decor."
Hassel gravitated toward earthy tones in his attire, as did Brassius though he opted for deeper shades and additional plum tones. Phen had unintentionally ended up matching the pair when she'd picked a white blouse and green trousers with suspenders, alongside white sneakers. Ailsa wore a blue summer dress, something airy for her as she was feeling the warmth of the day more than usual.
The clink of a cane on the ground was heard, Ama having gone to fetch AZ when their guests had arrived. A Lucario walked with him, eyes shifting to Gabbro for a quick moment before scanning the group. Gabbro appeared to also be quickly assessing the other pokemon, ultimately deciding he wasn't an issue. Quartz, however, released herself from her ball and chirped cheerfully at Ama.
"How lovely it is to see you all again," AZ said, warmth in his tone and smile. "I welcome you to Hotel Z."
He gestured for them to all sit at the lounge area to the side of the lobby, offering them drinks to begin with before he and Lucario went off to the kitchen to prepare them. Quartz and Ama chatted to one another near the reception desk while everyone took in their surroundings. There was an air of quiet and calm in the building, complimented by the tones of the walls and floors and the art that hung sporadically across the area. Out of curiosity, Brassius had gone to the flowers sitting in the vase at the reception desk to confirm if they were real blooms- they were- while Hassel admired the old fireplace, saying to Ailsa and Phen that his old family home had one similar to it.
"It's a bit odd the place is quiet," Ailsa commented, heading back to her seat.
"I'd suggest it could possibly be a quiet time for business, if it weren't the height of tourist season," Hassel mused, closing his eyes in thought. "So far it looks to be a lovely spot, if a little off the beaten track."
"You think it'd be more popular; the train stations are literally just down the road," Ailsa gestured lightly in the direction of said stations.
Phen looked out the window that looked out to the courtyard out front, as did Gabbro, quietly wondering what the history of the building was. She was still set in her theory of it not being a commercial building but wondered when it stopped being a hotel, why Hotel Z as a name, why did AZ resided here of all places, amongst other questions. Above all, she wondered how Ama's lifespan seemed to be long enough that she knew Quartz. She wasn't sure if she'd get a straight answer.
AZ and Lucario returned, the pokemon pushing a trolley that carried tea, coffee, sugars, milk, along with an assortment of pastries, cakes and sandwiches. Lucario appeared to take charge of giving everyone their drinks, Ama helpfully dropping a couple of sugar cubes into AZ's tea and stirring it for him, before looking around the others to offer the same.
"Your Lucario is quite attentive," Brassius said after thanking Ama for the sugar.
"He was gifted to me by a friend to help me with my day-to-day life," AZ explained. "And to also protect me."
"Your Floette doesn't battle?"
"Oh no, she does," AZ glanced at her for a moment. "But there have been a lot of wild pokemon in Lumiose as of late; this Lucario is especially well trained." He sipped his tea for a moment. "Are you Trainers yourselves?"
"All but Ailsa," Brassius answered.
"Battling wasn't my thing," Ailsa further clarified. "I have a Skwovet, he's more a housepet."
"Ma, would we get Carbink near Ambrette?" Phen asked when the idea jumped into her head. "I could catch you one."
"They're found in Relfection Cave commonly; that's quite a ways from Ambrette," AZ answered, looking at the women curiously, especially when Phen's lips downturned and her mum rubbed her arm comfortingly.
"Gem, it's fine. Thank you, though," Ailsa then faced AZ. "I've always been fascinated with gems and minerals, I've collected loads over the years. Even named Phen for one."
"My full name's Phenakite."
"An uncommon stone to be named after," AZ remarked evenly.
"Lot of people haven't heard of them," Phen gave a little shrug.
"Simply makes it a unique name for a unique woman," Hassel smiled warmly at her.
"If I may ask: how exactly did your family come together?" AZ directed the question to them all, curious at how Phen had one mother and two fathers. The physical resemblance between Phen and Ailsa was clear but not so much in either Hassel or Brassius.
"We met… is that four or five years ago now?" Ailsa started, musing and waving herself off. "Round about four or five years ago, Phen and I moved to Paldea for my work; I work in events, got headhunted by the Paldean League, and Phen got enrolled into Naranja Academy. I'd definitely say you had an… eventful first year, Gem."
"Yeah, don't think there'd be enough time to go through everything that happened back then," Phen smiled shyly- an odd reflection of how she used to be- and brushed her hair from her face. "One of the things I did was the Gym Challenge. Brassius is the Gym Leader in Artazon, too, and Hassel's my art teacher at Naranja." Her smile was soft as she looked at the pair. "Basically they saw my talent in art and kinda… took me under their wings. They helped me a lot with my confidence and… and I dunno. We just became family, I guess."
"If we're being honest, you reminded me a lot of Hass. You still do," Brassius added in, placing his cup down. "From your natural skills in art and battle, to how open your heart is. Needless to say you charmed me just as he did."
"Don't set me off again," Hass sniffed. Phen tried to hold back her own tears when she felt her eyes well up, quickly wiping under her eyes.
They continued the conversation when AZ asked about Brassius' Gym Leader position, learning of Hassel's position in the Elite Four along with Phen's friend, Nemona, just entering their ranks. He was aware of how Paldea had Champion Ranked Trainers and a Top Champion but it had been some time since he had last been to the region in spite of it being right next door, geographically speaking. He was told about how Phen reached Champion Rank in her first year and that she continues to be an exceptional battler alongside a talented artist.
From across the room, Phen glanced up when she noticed movement from Quartz. She was heading past the reception desk.
"Quartz?" Phen called, knowing how mischievous and curious her pokemon could be.
"If she's with Ama she'll be quite all right," AZ assured her. "I presume they'll be going to the roof to view Prism Tower."
"I'm gonna go with her," Phen got to her feet, nodding her head to Gabbro so he would follow. The Meowscarada got up and followed her as she joined the other two pokemon, heading into the elevator and pressing the button that would take them to the rooftop.
The top floor was split into two sections. The first was the indoor section that Phen was greeted with when the doors opened. Sunlight poured in from the windows, lighting the area up. Couches and chairs were sat around a few tables, just enough sections to not make the place look empty. One couch in particular was completely bathed in sun, making Phen smile- she almost expected Gabbro to lie across it. Instead he followed her, Ama, and Quartz out to the outdoor part of the top floor.
It was cosy, peaceful, flower pots decorated the balcony area, and additional planters sat against the walls and railings. Like indoors, there were what looked like a few separate sections for people to sit and talk, an unlit firepit sitting between two armchairs.
Amarantha and Quartz made their way to look at Prism Tower, Phen joining in from a little further back. It was such a clear view from their vantage point. Prism Tower could be seen from any point in Lumiose but sometimes the further away views truly gave it its grandeur.
Phen breathed in, noting how fragrant the flowers around them were. It was light, sweet, a pleasant scent. Maybe her mum would know what the flowers were exactly. Phen still liked the smell, it adding an extra layer to the view before them.
She took out her phone, taking a few photos of the view before taking a seat on one of the armchairs. Her knee ached somewhat, she stretched it for a few moments and took deep breaths while she listened to the chatter between Ama and Quartz. The two seemed happy enough, whatever they were talking about- even Gabbro made a few shorts noises at them when he picked up on something they said- and Phen smiled before reaching into her bag for her sketchpad as she figured, if they were there for a while, maybe she could get something started.
It was a rough drawing to start with, light strokes that she could erase or diffuse later, getting shapes down to start and focusing on details after the outlines were based. It was impressive that Hotel Z still managed to tower enough to get a good view of Prism Tower; it towered just like the owner. Phen still couldn't believe just how tall AZ was, it was almost inhuman. She couldn't think of any immediate reason as to why he would have grown so tall. There was certainly an air of mystery around the man between his height and his cryptic words as though implying he were much older than he appeared.
Her focus settled on getting the details she could see of Prism Tower, still wishing she could view Lumiose from the top of it. Still it would happen one day, she supposed. Sadly she couldn't exactly hop onto Idocrase and fly across the city; she'd probably frighten people with an ancient pokemon soaring above the skies and she was already a little hesistant in riding Idocrase on the streets with how built up the city was and with the traffic of cars. Gogoat, she noted, were far more scarce in the city so hopping on one of them to ride was a no-go too.
When Phen heard the door open she realised how much time must have passed, quickly looking at her phone before smiling sheepishly at AZ.
"Sorry," she said, almost automatically. "Guess I lost track of time."
"It's quite alright," AZ smiled at her, crossing the balcony and looking out to Prism Tower. Phen couldn't see his expression- the height difference making it difficult for her to guess- and instead her eyes drifted to his left knee and the brace over it. Curiosity had her wonder what happened to it. What caused him to need the brace? Did he have to use his cane immediately or did he need that support over time? Would she be the same?
AZ appeared to notice her eyes on him and looked down, though it caused Phen to avert her eyes and instead look out to Prism Tower. He chose to sit in the empty armchair and return his gaze to Lumiose's symbol, contemplating his words.
"It's a beautiful structure," he began. Phen hummed in agreement. "It is one thousand feet tall. Truly a remarkable creation." AZ took note of Phen's sketchpad. "May I see?"
"Hm? Oh, yeah," Phen passed him the book and let him scan over the in-progress piece. She quietly watched his eyes travel over various parts, gently clenching and flexing her hands as she awaited his verdict. She had no idea what the full extent of his artistic knowledge but, with the way he was studying her sketch, she guessed he had a fair share.
He then returned it to her with a smile. "Your parents are right: you are incredibly talented."
"Thank you," Phen brushed hair from her face and looked down at her drawing. "I know a million people have already drawn Prism Tower but… but I guess it's a good exercise in scale."
"The tower's appearance has changed over it's lifetime," AZ mused. "Perhaps it will change again one day." Phen nodded. In her art history studies she had seen how Prism Tower changed and evolved, its original form almost looking like a skeleton in comparison to its modern day counterpart. Though AZ caught her attention with his next few words. "People once believed that the tower watched over them."
"Like a… guardian?" Phen tilted her head.
"Exactly."
"Because of its size?"
"One might say so," AZ nodded.
Phen looked back at Prism Tower, AZ words felt as though they held a secret behind them; something hidden away, not yet ready to be brought to the light. His tone brought questions; the air of nostalgia and familiarity. There was an eccentricity to him, even with his calm, serene, nature. Needless to say, Phen was fairly fascinated by him.
"How long have you lived in Lumiose?" She asked.
"I suppose… three years now, since I returned," AZ answered after mulling over the question for a minute. "Ama and I have been running the hotel in that time."
"Is it always this quiet?"
"Apart from when the odd friend comes to visit, yes," AZ nodded. "Not that I mind; this is more to be my final residence than a business."
"Isn't it hard to upkeep?"
"For the moment, no, though I suppose the time will come when things will need repairs, leaks will appear, the floors pulled up and replaced," AZ said. "I'll ensure whoever inherits this place won't need to worry about that."
"Hopefully that's not for a while," Phen said. She never liked when her grandparents talked about not being around for much longer. They were in their seventies but she still wanted to think she still had time with them, the sentiment being shared for Kieran's grandparents.
"True, but I've lived a long life," AZ replied, shifting slightly in his seat. "As long as I can live out my days with Amarantha, I'll be content." He noticed Phen's gaze returning to his knee brace and quickly being averted when she noticed him turn his head. "You're curious about it, aren't you?"
Yes. "I have one." Phen rolled up her trouser leg to show him her support. After a moment she lowered it back down and gave a small shrug. "… Accident a few years ago. Kinda have to wear this almost all the time now." She worried about her knee getting weaker, about needing surgery to repair it, about maybe needing a walking stick in the future.
AZ nodded. "It was an accident for me, too."
There was a silent understanding between them to not pry further.
"Have you known Gabbro long?" AZ asked, his question steering the conversation to a new topic. Noticing that he was the new subject, Gabbro's eyes flicked up towards AZ even though he remained in his spot.
"He was my first pokemon," Phen smiled, reaching down to scratch behind Gabbro's ears. "It's been just over four years since I got him. He was given to me for starting at Naranja."
"By your mother?"
"No; the Academy gives new students a pokemon if they don't already have one," Phen explained. "So they can travel easier around Paldea for the Treasure Hunt and when in Battle Studies classes. I had a choice of three… Gabbro picked me." She scratched the top of his head. "We've been through everything together." Deep down she knew she wouldn't be half the person she was now if Gabbro hadn't chosen her as his Trainer.
"I can tell he's put a great deal of faith in you," AZ nodded, his gaze turning to Amarantha as the Floette looked out to the tower in the distance. "Quartz too. I'm sure all your pokemon must feel the same."
Phen hummed. "I try to not let them down." Her eyes drifted out onto the horizon. "They've done so much for me. All of them. So it's only fair I do everything I can for them."
AZ was silent. It caused Phen to turn her head, brows furrowed, watching as the man continued to stare into the same horizon she had. A deeper frown crossed his face, eyes sorrowful, as though a memory was wounding him. He had heard Phen's words, however, and took a moment before giving his response. When he did he turned to her, the sorrow in his eyes replaced with a more serious gaze, yet still gentle, piercing through her. Phen could only find it comprobable to the powerful, commanding eyes of a Dragon Trainer.
"So long as you never betray the faith they have put in you."
Amarantha trilled, getting their attention as she floated over to the pair, Quartz in tow, now finished with their little break to view Prism Tower. Ama made a few more soft noises to AZ, he nodded in reply, Phen still in awe of how well he was able to read and infer what she was saying. After a few more moments passed, AZ rose to his feet.
"Yes, we should return to our guests," he said, looking down at Phen as she also got to her feet. "You are welcome to stay here, if you wish."
"No, it's fine," she smiled, putting her sketchbook back into her bag and getting the door for AZ before they returned to her family.
The conversations continued where they had been left off once Phen and AZ returned, speaking about some of the plans they made when they arrived in Ambrette. Ailsa was particulary interested in just wandering through town to see how much it had grown and changed from her own childhood, she and her parents visiting her dad's family frequently up until she began university; she was already amazed at how much Lumiose had been changing, having not been in the city since her uni days.
"I had a friend studying at Lumiose University, some breaks I'd visit for a weekend, she'd come to Hammerlocke others," Ailsa explained, "I know I shouldn't be surprised the city's changed so much; that was well over twenty years ago."
"Was there a particular reason you stopped visiting?" AZ inquired.
"I went to Unova for work after graduating," Ailsa answered. "I was always busy, so I'd only really go back to Galar to visit my parents. I didn't move back to Galar until Phen's father and I split." The sentence was brief and Ailsa didn't feel like letting it linger. "But there's a lot of different work going on in the city, all the work of one company?"
"Quasartico, yes."
Ailsa nodded, vaguely recollecting that she had heard the name elsewhere- most likely through work.
"I can only imagine what you were like in your university days, Ailsa," Brassius chuckled. "You certainly enjoyed them more than I did."
"I'm saying nothing in front of my daughter." Ailsa tried to give Brassius a flat look but couldn't help but shake her head and smile. "But me and Phen were looking into Lumiose College of Art a few days after we got here, just for options."
"I've still got two years left at Naranja, but I'm going to be mainly focusing on the arts and go into university after it," Phen said. "But I also might change my mind, it's still two years out, I just wanted to know my options. I'll still be battling; don't think Nemona would forgive me if I stopped."
"I have a feeling she'll want to battle you as soon as we get home as her first official battle as an Elite Four," Hassel smiled and having more than a hunch that he was correct.
While the conversations continued, Amarantha and Quartz joining the group, the Floette would say things to her Trainer that he would listen and nod to, little chirps as she sat on the stem of her flower, as though she were making little remarks and asides to each comment made. AZ's Lucario ended up making some conversation with Gabbro, letting him relax in his self-imposed duties to keep an eye on Phen. They appeared to be hitting it off from what Phen could see, smiling as Gabbro appeared more relaxed once again.
Lucario did notice, after a time, when the plates were emptied and began putting them on the trolley to return to the kitchen, along with the empty teapots and cups.
"Do you need any help?" Ailsa offered.
"Nonsense, you are my guests," AZ shook his head. "Do you have any more plans while in Lumiose?"
"Dinner tomorrow night, then away to Ambrette on Tuesday," Hassel said. "What about yourself?"
"Hmm, I take every day as it comes, I suppose," AZ replied.
"A good plan as any," Brassius nodded. "But I suppose we've taken up enough of your time, AZ. We don't want to wear out our welcome."
"I was wanting to have another look at some sunglasses, if we're heading to the Bleu District after here," Ailsa added in, looking at her phone for the time and not realising how long they'd been at the hotel.
"It was a joy to have you all come," AZ smiled and rose to his feet, walking them through the lobby to the entrance. "Thank you for taking the time to take up my offer to visit."
"Thank you for offering," Ailsa smiled, the adults all shaking AZ's hand in turn before Phen did so.
"It was nice to let Quartz and Ama catch up," she said, her pokemon smiling happily beside her. "And it was lovely meeting you, AZ."
"The pleasure is all mine," AZ smiled and nodded, waving them farewell.
Meanwhile, Amarantha trilled with mild irritance at AZ, tugging a lock of his hair to get his attention as she spoke hurriedly as they were leaving. AZ sighed softly as though giving in to his pokemon's request.
"Phen?"
She and her family turned when AZ spoke her name. A brief silence hung in the air, as though he was considering his next words. It wasn't long enough to allow her a moment to question anything, instead merely awaiting to hear what he had to say.
"Should you ever find yourself in Lumiose again, there will always be a place for you at Hotel Z."
Phen smiled in spite of her brow furrowing at the seemingly odd offer extended to her. It was out of the blue but, she supposed if she were to study in the city, perhaps the offer was simply a place to stay if she struggled for accommodation. A kind offer, regardless.
"Thank you, AZ." She spoke with a smile, once again waving farewell to the man and his pokemon, leaving the hotel with her family.
His words would stay with her, even if she put them to the back of her mind. She had time ahead of her before that next step and, truthfully, she hoped that she would be accepted into Castleia University when she would apply. For now she wanted to enjoy her family holiday before her next year begun, the Treasure Hunt beginning anew, and truly starting on the road to earning her art degree.
Her immediate future was her current focus: to enjoy her remaining time in Lumiose, visit her grandfather's hometown, enjoy her time in Kalos and then fly to Galar to visit her grandparents. The future that would come in a few years would be decided then.